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Vaucheria (Vaucheriaceae)

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Diagnostic features

Long branching xanthophycean filaments. Filaments are siphonous (lacking cross-walls, and containing numerous nuclei and small yellow-green chloroplasts).  The siphons often break during examination, releasing clouds of chloroplasts.  Forms dark green felt-like mats.

[Vaucheria], Pomahaka riverbank. Photo: Otago Regional Council & Manaaki Whenua Image
Vaucheria, Pomahaka riverbank. Photo: Otago Regional Council & Manaaki Whenua
[Vaucheria], Pomahaka riverbank, X160. Photo: Otago Regional Council & Manaaki Whenua Image
Vaucheria, Pomahaka riverbank, X160. Photo: Otago Regional Council & Manaaki Whenua

Typical habitats

Slow-flowing waters or in damp marginal habitats, including low light locations

Classification

Kingdom Chromista
Phylum Ochrophyta
Class Xanthophyceae
Order Vaucheriales
Family Vaucheriaceae
Common name Yellow-green algae